Zither named “Flowing Water- by Nakamura Sōtetsu

Zither named “Flowing Water- 1794

3d sculpting

3d printed part

sculpture

jewelry design

japan

sculptural image

unrealistic statue

3d shape

stoneware

ceramic

statue

This zither, named “Flowing Water,” was crafted by Nakamura Sōtetsu in 1794. The instrument, a traditional Japanese musical instrument, is made of black wood and features multiple strings and a decorative tassel. The zither's elegant design and intricate details are a testament to the skill of the craftsman. This artwork, part of the Minneapolis Institute of Art's collection, offers insight into Japanese musical traditions and the artistry of instrument making.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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The seven-stringed zither, called kin in Japanese, has been played in China (where it is called qin) for at least 3,000 years. It was introduced to Japan by the 700s and was a common instrument in the cultural sphere represented in The Tale of Genji. This example of a kin was created by an artist of the celebrated Nakamura family of lacquerers, all of whom used the given name Sōtetsu. The artist of this zither, which is dated to 1794, was probably the fifth-generation Nakamura Sōtetsu, who lived from 1764 to 1811. The Nakamura lacquerers maintained relationships with Japan’s leading cultural trendsetters and were celebrated for their craftsmanship.